Understanding the Role of Sortase A in Group B Streptococcus Pilus Anchoring
Author Information
Author(s): Francesca Necchi, Vincenzo Nardi-Dei, Massimiliano Biagini, Michael Assfalg, Annalisa Nuccitelli, Roberta Cozzi, Nathalie Norais, John L. Telford, C. Daniela Rinaudo, Guido Grandi, Domenico Maione
Primary Institution: Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Siena, Italy
Hypothesis
Sortase A is essential for the cell wall anchoring of the minor ancillary protein in Group B Streptococcus pilus 2a.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that Sortase A specifically catalyzes the anchoring of the minor ancillary protein to the cell wall, which is crucial for the stability of the pilus structure.
Supporting Evidence
- The LPXTG sorting signal of the minor ancillary protein is essential for pilus anchoring.
- Sortase A specifically hydrolyzes the sorting signal of the minor ancillary protein.
- Recombinant Sortase A was produced and shown to catalyze the transpeptidation reaction.
Takeaway
This research shows that a specific protein helps bacteria stick to surfaces, which is important for their survival and can help in making vaccines.
Methodology
The study used in vivo mutagenesis and in vitro assays to analyze the role of Sortase A in pilus anchoring.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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